Q: What is the etiquette for after you have eloped? We eloped, and since everyone’s been told it’s been a nightmare. We eloped because we are both very private people and did not want to stand in the front of a church full of people to say our sacred vows. How can we address our elopement to our family and friends?
A: Many couples that have eloped return to find their family and friends are slightly peeved that they weren’t included. Wedding etiquette aficionado Peggy Post suggests that an informal, belated reception may be in order for a couple that has had a private ceremony. The bride and groom can host the party themselves, or their parents or close friends may host it. By having a celebration with your family and friends, your loved ones will feel more included in your wedding even if they did not (or could not) attend the ceremony. Post explains that most belated receptions will not mimic post-ceremony receptions, as there is typically no wedding cake, no gifts, no receiving line and no first dance. Belated receptions resemble typical parties with some food, drinks and dancing. Attire will be more casual than a wedding, and invitations are less formal as belated receptions are less likely to be sit-down dinners. An informal, belated celebration is a great way to appease the parents as well as just have a lovely celebration for you and your mister!
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